Diabetic Foot

Diabetic Foot Care in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL

Diabetic foot treatment in the Manatee County, FL: Bradenton (University Park, Bayshore Gardens, Palmetto, Foxleigh, Lakewood Ranch, Ellenton, Parrish) and Sarasota County, FL: Sarasota (South Gate Ridge, Sarasota Springs, Venice, Laurel, Osprey, Fruitville, South Sarasota, North Sarasota, Southgate, Bee Ridge) areasUnfortunately, foot problems are often a common result of having diabetes. As time goes by, it’s likely that diabetes can cause nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy. This can lead to tingling or a painful sensation, and it may also cause you to lose feeling in your feet. The loss of feeling in your feet can become incredibly dangerous, especially if you can longer sense a blister or cut on your foot; this can lead to sores or infections.

There are many ways to maintain healthy foot care when dealing with diabetes. Most importantly, you want to ensure that you’re managing your blood glucose levels, otherwise known as your blood sugar. You also want to ensure that you’re checking your feet daily. As mentioned before, it’s important to recognize if your feet have cuts, sores, blisters, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or other troubling foot conditions to stay ahead of the issue and prevent yourself from further harm. Along with foot checks, you should also wash and dry your feet daily using lukewarm water. It may also be useful in certain cases to moisturize your feet a few times a week, especially if you’re prone to dryness. Please be advised, however, to avoid moisturizing between the toes as they will not dry properly. Another rule you may want to follow is to ensure you’re cutting your toenails straight across. You should also refrain from digging into the sides of the toes; this will help prevent the development of an ingrown toenail. If you do happen to develop a corn or callus, never treat them yourself; seek the help of a professional. It may also be beneficial to look into socks made specifically for those with diabetes to help provide yourself with extra cushion. You may also want to refrain from walking barefoot, as well as avoid smoking, as it restricts the blood flow to your feet.

Diabetic Foot Complications

In certain serious cases, you may notice a cut, blister, or bruise is not healing after a few days. If this occurs, it’s important to seek the help of a professional. Other warning signs include redness, swelling, a callus with dried blood inside of it, or an infection that causes discoloration of the foot and an odor.

Diabetic feet must be inspected on a daily basis. Diabetic foot care at home is possible if a patient is provided with instructions from their podiatrist. If you’d like more information on how to maintain healthy feet while living with diabetes, seek the assistance of a podiatrist who can provide you with the tips needed for healthy foot care.

Diabetic Foot Care (FAQs)

How does diabetes affect the feet?
Diabetes is a systemic condition that affects multiple parts of the body—and the feet are no exception. Those with diabetes can be more likely to develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation. Neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that can lead to a loss of sensations in the feet. With a diminished ability to feel pain, small cuts, scrapes, or wounds can go undetected until they have progressed and become more serious. These wounds will also heal more slowly and poorly due to reduced circulation, which doesn’t allow enough blood and nutrients to travel to the damaged area.
What are diabetic foot ulcers?
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are wounds that can form on the lower limbs. These wounds usually heal slowly and poorly, and are at an increased risk of becoming infected.
How can I prevent diabetic foot problems?
If you have diabetes, maintaining the health of your feet is paramount. It is suggested that you inspect your feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other injuries. Take note of changes in appearance, such as skin discoloration, hair loss, or deformities, and any new sensations, including pain, numbness, tingling, or changes in skin temperature. If you notice any symptoms, see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of foot problems will help prevent complications later on.
When should I see the podiatrist for diabetic feet?
If you have diabetes, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist regularly. This specialist can help you maintain the health of your feet—and therefore your mobility and independence—by detecting and treating any foot problems before they progress. A podiatrist can also help by treating any existing foot wounds and teaching you about how to prevent foot problems in the future.

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